Wyoming Bicycle Laws and Traffic Rules – Platte River Injury Law

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Wyoming Bicycle Laws and Traffic Rules

Riding a bicycle can be great exercise and allow you to explore some of Wyoming’s natural beauty.

However, you always have to be watching out for drivers on the road who might not see you. It’s crucial you follow Wyoming bicycle laws so you cannot be held liable in the event of an accident.

If you were involved in a collision while riding a bike, speak with an experienced Wyoming bicycle injury attorney who can help you determine what legal rights you have.

Bicycles Are Vehicles Under Wyoming Law

Under Wyoming traffic laws, bicycles are treated as vehicles, which means you must follow all the same laws as cars. You are expected to obey traffic signs and signals and properly signal when making turns.

In general, bicyclists should not ride on pedestrian sidewalks. There are no separate Wyoming bicycle laws that specifically address this issue, but the defendant’s insurance company could try to use it against you in their arguments.

Rather than on a sidewalk, bicyclists should be riding as far to the right as they can. You are responsible for making sure you always ride in the safest manner possible and do not interfere with vehicular traffic.

Drivers are required to keep at least three feet of distance between their vehicle and bicycles under Wyoming’s safe passing laws. However, you may not want to assert your right of way too aggressively given the size and weight difference between a bicycle and a vehicle.

Riding your bicycle after drinking or taking drugs is illegal. If you choose to ride after drinking at a bar all evening, you could be fined. If there is a serious incident, you could be facing criminal charges that include jail time.

Wyoming Biking Safety Rules

General bicycle traffic rules dictate that you should always ride in a predictable manner, meaning that other drivers should know what you are doing. Be visible while riding your bicycle.

You should also carry an emergency repair kit in case of an accident. At night you should always have reflectors and lights, like cars are required to have. At a minimum, you need a red reflector in the rear and a white light in the front.

Helmet Laws in Wyoming

There is no official helmet law in Wyoming that extends to bicycle riders. Riders of any age can choose not to wear a helmet, but it’s not recommended. Any time you forgo safety equipment, you put yourself at a more significant risk of serious injuries.

What Laws Apply to Electric Bikes?

Electric bicycles, or e-bikes, have their regulations regarding where they are allowed. In general, they are still considered bicycles. They do not require licensing, insurance, or registration like motor vehicles do.

Each county has its own regulations on which types of electric bikes are allowed on the bike paths. They may not be allowed on trails that specifically prohibit motorized activities.

Contact a Wyoming Bicycle Accident Lawyer

If you or a loved one was injured in a Wyoming bicycle accident caused by someone else’s negligence, you should speak with an experienced Wyoming bicycle accident lawyer who can advise you on the best course of legal action.

You could be entitled to compensation for your injuries. Contact Platte River Injury Law to learn more about how we can help.

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